by: Philadelphia Councilman Denny O’BrienPhiladelphia needs to remove hurdles to implementation of a successful composting program by city food-related businesses, while maintaining safeguards that protect citizens’ health and neighborhood cleanliness.I introduced Bill No. 140903 to do just that.The bill, which was referred out of the Committee on Streets and Services on February 10 tightens up and simplifies the law as it applies to dumpsters, their upkeep and collection.It also identifies organics composting and anaerobic digestion as forms of recycling, which allows it to be licensed at the same rates as ‘traditional’ recycling dumpsters (cardboard, paper, single-stream, etc.).My measure explicitly states that composting dumpsters will receive recycling medallions. This is important to food-related businesses because recycling dumpster medallions are half as expensive as refuse dumpsters. This gives a green financial incentive to businesses.“This legislation is positive for businesses, residents, and the City,” said Phil Bresee, recycling director for the Streets Department. He further added at the committee hearing, “It incentivizes organics recycling, and opens the door to more modern waste management methods while continuing to safeguard the general public against unsanitary conditions, all without significantly impacting the Streets Departments’ enforcement programs.”